rabies immune globulin (human)

What is the most important information I should know about rabies immune globulin?

Rabies immune globulin is given together with a full series of rabies vaccination. This medicine by itself will not protect against rabies.

What is rabies immune globulin?

Rabies immune globulin is used to protect people who have been bitten by animals (post-exposure). This medicine is given together with a full series of rabies vaccination. Rabies immune globulin by itself will not protect against rabies.

You will not need rabies immune globulin if you have received a rabies vaccine in the past.

Rabies immune globulin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving rabies immune globulin?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to a human immune globulin product;
• an immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency;
• heart problems;
• coronary artery disease (clogged arteries);
• a stroke or blood clot;
• a blood cell or blood-clotting disorder;
• high triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood);
• an "in-dwelling" catheter; or
• if you have been bed-ridden.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Rabies immune globulin is made from donated human plasma and may contain viruses or other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of contamination, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Ask your doctor about any possible risk.

How is rabies immune globulin given?

Rabies immune globulin is injected into a muscle, or directly into or near the wound (animal bite or scratch) that exposed you to the rabies virus. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Rabies immune globulin is given when you receive the first of your series of rabies vaccine doses, or within 7 days afterward.

Be sure to receive all recommended doses of rabies vaccine or you may not be fully protected against disease.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Rabies immune globulin is used as a single dose and does not have a daily dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving rabies immune globulin?

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using rabies immune globulin, and for at least 3 months afterward. The vaccine may not work as well and may not fully protect you from disease. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), polio, rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), and zoster (shingles).

Wait at least 4 months after receiving rabies immune globulin before you get a measles vaccine.

What are the possible side effects of rabies immune globulin?

• fever, chills; or
• dark urine.

Common side effects may include:

• headache;
• cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat;
• stomach pain, gas, diarrhea;
• muscle pain; or
• pain, swelling, itching, redness, or a hard lump where the shot was given.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect rabies immune globulin?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

Other drugs may affect rabies immune globulin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about rabies immune globulin.